8-Year-Old Mumbai Girl Becomes World’s Youngest Solo Paragliding Pilot

In a landmark achievement for Indian adventure sports, Saesha Mangesh Raut, an 8-year-old from Mumbai, Maharashtra, has etched her name in the High Range World Records as the youngest solo paragliding pilot in the world.

On May 21, 2025, at the globally acclaimed paragliding hub of Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh, Saesha soared solo at an altitude of 2,459 meters (8,068 feet) for an impressive 15 minutes.

Guided by certified instructors from AntiGravity Paragliding School, the young prodigy demonstrated exceptional skill, courage, and composure in the skies over the Himalayas.

“This is not just a personal milestone for Saesha, but a proud moment for the entire country,” said a spokesperson for the High Range World Records team. “Her achievement will inspire countless young adventurers to pursue their passions fearlessly.”

Bir-Billing, known as one of the world’s premier paragliding destinations, has witnessed many feats, but none as young and remarkable as Saesha’s historic flight.

Saesha’s parents credited her determination, rigorous training, and unwavering support from her instructors for making this record possible. “She’s been dreaming of flying since she was five,” her father said. “Today, she showed that age is no barrier when passion takes flight.”

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